What technology is used to fight wildfires?

Answer 1

Scientists cannot predict wildfires (also known as bushfires in Australia) with any degree of accuracy, as these fires are often caused by man's actions, such as carelessly tossing a cigarette out of a window, or carelessly leaving a campfire still hot. One of Australia's worst bushfires on the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia, was caused by a man's car backfiring into scrubland, instantly igniting the vegetation. However, meteorologists can use their equipment to predict when conditions are going to be particularly hot and dry, or when hot, dry, gusting winds are likely to increase the likelihood and severity of wildfires/bushfires.

Answer 2

When it comes to fighting wildfires, we use whatever we can to combat and contain them. Satellite imaging is used, and all the technology applied by meteorologists is brought to bear to predict the weather in areas affected by wildfires. We use modern (and vintage!) aircraft to monitor and fight the fires, and these include single- and multi-engine, rotorcraft and fixed-wing, and propeller and jet aircraft. Fire spotters use radio equipment, and the big aircraft are equipped with all kinds of electronics, including GPS and radar. Equipment on the ground will have GPS and radio equipment, and, where water is available, pumps and hoses. Bulldozers might be employed to clear a fire break if a big machine can be positioned safely. In addition to water, fire retardants, which are chemically engineered to be effective, are dropped by the aircraft. Breathing equipment might be used, and the clothing of fire fighters is constructed of materials designed to resist fire and heat. The list of things used in fighting wildfires might go on for a while. Consider what the crews wear, and what equipments they employ (from something handheld to what they ride on) and you can extend this list some.

Answer 3

Mostly seismographs, to measure the earthquakes prior to the eruption. It should be noted that predicting eruption in 100% success rate is not yet possible.